HP SmartStart CD is available for all HP ProLiant ML/DL/SL 300, 500, and 700 Series servers and HP ProLiant BL server blades. HP SmartStart CD contains utilities like ACU, Insight Diagnostics, HP management tools and Proliant Support packs (PSP).
HP SmartStart CD provides step by step ProLiant server deployment assistance by allowing you to do assisted Windows OS installation. This CD provides an easy to use graphical interface that helps you through the OS installation process. It also helps you to install HP ProLiant server support software drivers, utilities and management agents.
Before you start the Windows installation, you need to ensure that you have created a RAID array on your Server. Once you created RAID array and logical drive, you can go ahead and install OS on it. Please follow the step by step tutorial provided in the below said post to create a logical drive.
Guide: Configure RAID using HP ACU on your HP Server
When you use SmartStart CD for Windows installation, it makes the OS installation process much easier because you will not be prompted to install Storage Controller drivers while installing OS. Moreover, SmartStart CD will install all necessary hardware drivers and utilities needed for your Server. If you are using HP Proliant 100 series servers, then you need to use HP Easy Setup CD to install Windows. HP SmartStart CD usually does not work with 100 series HP servers.
In this post, we are showing how to do the assisted installation of the OS using the SmartStart CD. This easy to follow step by step guide will help you to implement Windows OS on your Server for the first time.
Assisted Installation of Windows using SmartStart CD:
1. Boot the server using HP Smart Start CD (this might take some time!)
2. Select language as English (US), keyboard layout as US English and click Next button
3. Accept HP End User License Agreement by clicking Agree button.
4. Now you will be at the main page of HP SmartStart CD.
5. Under Media Option, click on Install to continue the Windows OS installation.
6. Now you will be at Boot Controller Selection window
7. Select the Controller/Logical drive from the list, click Next
8. Now you will be at Operating System Selection window.
9. Select the Windows version from the list, click Next
Note: Ensure that you select the right Windows version from the list. If you have a HP Branded OS CD (OEM) then you need to select the Windows version under HP-Branded Media Option.
10. Now you will be at Operating System Media Source window.
11. Select the Windows Installation CD location from the list. Click Next
Note: As I am mapping Windows CD using iLO Virtual Media, I have selected iLO Virtual Media as the installation Source. If you are installing from a CD/DVD, then select the right option from the list.
12. Now you will bet at Disk Partitioning Options page.
13. Select the file system (NTFS/FAT), also select the Partition size for the OS. Click Next
14. Now you will bet at Product Set Up Information page.
15. Enter Computer Name, Administrator Password and rest of the information. Click Next
Note: In Some cases, you may be prompted to enter Windows Product key as well. If prompted, please fill the Windows Product key at the same page to continue the installation.
16. Now you will bet at WBEM/SNMP Configuration page.
17. Select YES for both SNMP and WBEM Providers. Click Next
18. Now you will bet at SNMP Configuration page.
19. Leave the default settings unchanged, click Next
20. Now you will bet at WBEM Configuration page.
21. Select YES for Configure Windows firewall for Remote WMI access, click Next
22. Now you will bet at Proliant Support Pack Installation Configuration page.
23. Select Express option and click Next
24. Now you will be at Installation Information page.
25. Cross check whether correct information is showing in this window. Click Next
26. Now SmartStart CD will partition the drive and will copy necessary drivers from the CD.
27. When Prompted Insert the Windows OS CD or use iLO Virtual media to map the OS CD.
28. Accept Windows EULA by clicking Accept button. (Only if prompted)
29. Wait till SmartStart CD finishes copying of Windows OS files to the HDD.
30. Once files are copied, the Server will be restarted.
31. Now you will see below provided screen.
32. Accept the Microsoft License Terms and click Next button
33. Wait till Windows finishes the installation.
34. Great, Windows is successfully installed on your Server, now you are ready to roar!
Here in this post, we have installed Windows 2008 R2 Enterprise 64 bit on a DL360 G7 Server using SmartStart CD 8.6 version. If you are installing other version of Windows, you will also need to enter Windows Product key at Step number 15.
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I m trying to install window 2008 r2 ent on Dl360 g7
i stuck at 27% of drivers installation, it ask for OS media and also recognize it and it says continuing. but nothing happen later, server remain silent.
Which version of SmartStart CD you are using, could you send me all details by email? tricksguide@gmail.com ?
Hi Siru!
I hav the same problem. The installation stuck at 27% of drivers installation, it ask for OS media and also recognize it and it says continuing. We have tried different 2008 R2 – with and without SP1. The issue still remain.
Do you know solution for that.
SSCD – 8.70 and 8.70B
OS – Windows 2008R2
Thanks in advance!
Have you tried using external CD/DVD drive OR used iLO and checked?
Or
Or put the ISO file in USB thumb drive and select the right selection in OS Source selection screen.
SS8.7B supports 2008 R2 and I installed the same OS on one of the server here yesterday.
let me know how it goes
Hi Siru,
Thanks for the fast response.
We have mamaged it to instal OS, but after first reboot there was an error: hpssbem.exe
File: \ boot \ BCD
Status: 0cx000000f
Do you have any idea what could be a cause for that?
Thanks
Hopefully, this will help you:
http://hpproliant.blogspot.in/2011/11/hpssbemexe-error-message-during.html
please check it. Please check comment section as well.
Siru, the only way to install OS 2008R2 was without SSCD.
We have used VLite to add drivers for controller to the ISO image.
After that we have succesfully installed OS.
Glad that OS installed eventhough SSCD did not work
Regards
SiRu
Hi, thanks for this but do you know a way to disable the second onboard NIC in a HP ML110 G7?
Trying to install SBS2011 and it fails (largely we are guessing because of the second NIC).
Have disabled in BIOS, but Windows still see’s it (though it says not all resources available).
Thanks, Grant
Have you tried using HP SmartStart CD x64 Version: 8.70 (5 Apr 2011) as it could support SBS2011.
Link is here:
http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bizsupport/TechSupport/SoftwareDescription.jsp?lang=en&cc=us&prodTypeId=15351&prodSeriesId=5075942&swItem=MTX-8d8870eebb4244918bd75303f4&prodNameId=5075943&swEnvOID=4108&swLang=8&taskId=135&mode=4&idx=2
Also regarding second NIC, please check whether you have a PCI option in BIOS where you can disable NIC.
Hi, yes we’ve been using the latest HP SmartStart DVD, same issue; ironic that a preloaded HP ML110 G7 fails to install properly…
I’ll go digging further in the BIOS and see what I can turn up.
Thanks though…
Ok, please update what happens
I have managed to fix an IPv6 address into the primary NIC before main SBS2011 install happens and also un-install the second NIC from Device Manager; so far that has worked.
Pretty much left speechless though about this…
Hey Siru,
when we want to install os using smartstart cd, how can we keep the existing partitions as it is while formatting only boot partition to install the OS ?
For instance, I have c, d and e drives. I want to keep d and e drives as it is and just format the c drive to install the OS. How can we do this ?
I have not tried this personally, but you have an option to select the logical drive when you install the OS, i hope it may work:
Check the step number 7:
7. Select the Controller/Logical drive from the list, click Next
we bought HP Proliant DL380 G7 and i haven’t got idea how to install and configure RAID array, do i need to set array before i install window operating system.
Thanks for your help SiRU,
I have read the guide how to install array+logical driver and i appreciate that your effort. but my question is, its still new to me as i had never done before and confusing little bit, we have 4 new disks which all need to be configure and selected approperiate RAID. would you please tell me which is the most approperiate RAID to be use when you are configuring a new disks.
many thanks SIRU.
dualeh
I would need some time to reply to your email again.. I will do it soon
Sent an email to possible solutions and PDF files
Yes you have to configure the RAID array first and then go on and install the OS using the smartstart for better results.
Thanks SIRU
Hello,
This is really awesome !!
Is there another article for installing ubuntu server ?? ^^
Unfortunately No articles published regarding Ubuntu
That’s bad
Do you have some knowledge about it ?
If so , can i e-mail you if i faced any problems ??
I am trying to install window sever 2008, Enterprise x64 Edition on DL360 G7
i stuck at 27% of drivers installation, it ask for OS media and also recognize it and it says continuing. but nothing happened after 2 days, server remain silent. The used version of SmartStart CD is 8.70 for x86 64bit operating system only.
Enterprise x64 is a 64 bit OS, may I know whether you are using 32 bit (X86) or 64 bit SmartStart CD? Both are different
hmm i’m having the same issue
I am trying to install windows 2003 64bit on DL380 G7 with Start Smart 8.7 by ILO .after configure raid it start to install OS show me this error:
Newly created partition in inaccessible – unable to continue : mount: you must specify the file system type
I trying with Start Smart 8.5,8.6 and windows 2003 32 bit.all of them the same .
what i want to do?
THX
Basically you need to use Clear Configuration Button in ACU to clear entire RAID information (Also RIS data from HDD), then restart the server. It solved for me once.
Hello Siru
may be you or the readers could help me
I am installing win 2008 server R2 (64 bits) on a DL160 G6, the shipped easysetup CD (HP ProLiant DL160 G6 Server Easy Set-up CD version 2.00) does not show option for R2, only for 2008 server in its variants, if i choose 2008 std I will block me because i have 8 GB RAM, if I choose 2008 ent, it allows me to go ahead but when it asks for the media, it will not accept it.
i tried also to remove 4 GB RAM, and tried again with 2008 std, but again it will not accept my original (not OEM) 2008 r2 ent media
the smartstart CDs not 32 nor 64 support the DL 160 G6 as far i have checked
Thanks for reading and for helping, great site.
HP ProLiant DL160 G6 Easy Set-up CD latest available is 2.60 (8 Mar 2011). Link is here
But it does not speak about Windows 2008 R2 support. So if 2.60 does not list R2 as an option, then you have to install the OS manually by booting from Windows Media (CD/ISO file).
after I finished running set up using smartstart cd ver 8.7 and completed windows server 2008 R2. How do I make a partition for the disk? iam using raid 5 with 4 harddisk (@146GB each)
If my understanding is right, You already used ACU and created the Logical drives (nothing but partitions). Then why you need to create more?
For any Partitions/disk related issues, you need to use HP ACU which can be launched from Smart Start CD
Hello SIRU,
May be you or other readers can help me here, I have bought DL160 G6 recently and i also bought EOM Window Server 2008 R2 separately, the server has 1 hard drive which is (160GB)but my question is, can i install window server 2008 R2 without creating RAID Array and logical driver or do i need to create array and logical driver before i install window 2008 R2. need to be done before the weekend, any suggestion would be appreciate.
many thanks
Sorry, took some time to see your comments, there were 100s of comments and was going through it.
You may try NOT to enable to RAID option in BIOS and see whether you can install the operating system on HDDs. I already wrote a document regarding Enabling RAID in BIOS for 100 series proliant Server. Instead of enabling, just leave the settings to default and try.
Do let me know what happens
Thanks so much for your assisted installation of windows using Smart Start CD cause i’ve been suffered for about three month now finally i got the solution for the problem.
Hi William, Glad to hear that my article helped.
, I always feel good when someone write like this 
Cheers
Hello Siru, Please I learnt the new Smart Start supports Linux, but I discovered that you cannot select Linux OS from the Smart Start installation. I want to learn how to select the OS
You have to boot the server from Redhat CD/DVD and use the command “DD” to install Operating System. You have to download the storage controller driver from HP and use it along here..
Thanks SiRu. But what does the “DD” mean? If I have to create RAID on the Server using the ACU, it will require me to use the Smart start.
HI dear sir i have hp proliant DL380 G7 whan my installation compeled i have boot erre what is that way ?
HI ashoreyan,
I am sorry, I did not understood the exact issue you are experiencing.
Please explain.
Hi Siru
In case anyone has an issue installing SBS2011 with smartstart 8.70, I wanted to say they must download the latest version 8.70B for smartstart to recognise the sbs2011 media.
Thanks for this info
I am trying to install server 2008 std R2 x64 and when i get to Operating system media source I only get 3 choices
1.network file
2.usb key
3.ilo virtual
I cannot use the dvd-rom feature as it says it has been disabled
How to i use that feature ?
I am adding this with smartstart and on a G7 blade
thanks
You need to make Windows 2008 ISO file and then mount the ISO file using iLO Virtual Media.
Then select “ilo virtual” as the source and you will be all fine.
dear sir
i m use ur Windows OS using HP SmartStart CD 8.
but it is error kernal requires an x86 64 cpu but only detect an i686cpu.
unable to boot plz use the kernal approprite for your cpu.
plz sebd me lower ver.. smart cd .
server mo.no=hp prolite ml110 server
my raid card mo.no= lsi20320-hp
Hp 100 series servers doesnt supporr smartstart cd (except newer g7 server). That is the reason you are getting this error. You need to implement os without any smartstart cd. Thanks
dear sir
i nedded this server driver.how to install this server in 2003 server.
plz tell me any sugg..
server mo.no=hp prolite ml110 server
my raid card mo.no= lsi20320-hp
Hi SiRu
I am building a new HP DL360 G7, I am using smartstart 8.70
I selected windows 2008R2 ( did not see an option for sp1 or sp2)
I tried installing windows 2008R2 SP2 but get an error saying that it is the wrong OS
I changed ISO’s to windows 2008R2 with no service packs and it installed without error.
Do you know if it is possible to do a build with 2008R2 SP2 from smartstart ?
Thank You
Brian
Hi Brian,
Have you tried the SMartStart CD 8.7b which is the latest (not 8.7)
If 8.7b does not accept 200* r2 Sp1/sp2, then we have to do the manual OS installation, which is easy to do. We do not have a way to make SmartStart CD compatible with R2 Sp2, it should work automatically,
Do let me know if you get stuck on OS implementation.
I have installed using the smart start CD on DL 360 G7, Windows 2008 R2 Standard. I am trying to logon and it does not seem to be accepting the password that entered during the smart start phase of the install. Do you have any suggestions?
Use the Hirens bootCD and reset the server password. Note: This is not a legal way to do it.
Best is reinstall OS, hardly take 1 hr
I never had this trouble!
Thanks. I re-installed shortly after I posted this. It didn’t seem worth the trouble to play around any more.
I understand
Hi,
I have just bought a HP Proliant DL380 G7, it did not come with a CD-Rom so I download the HP USB utlity and the SmartStart 8.70B 64 bit, and used the utlity to create a bootable USB from the SmartStart ISO file. The problem I have is when it boots up to the USB device it loads the Smartstart splash screnn, but there seems to be no Smartstart application to use, becase when I press enter on it brings me to a blank screen.
Any advice,
Thanks.
J
Julian, the next option you can use is iLO. If you do not have an advance license, please get a trial key from hp. Link is here:
http://h18004.www1.hp.com/products/servers/management/tryinsightcontrol/index.html
Ideally, the USB method should work, try using another USB key and see how it goes, it always worked for me
Regards
SiRu
Thanks for the reply SiRu,
I actually got a external CD-Rom and burnt the Smart Start ISO image to this. This worked fine.
Now that i am in, I just need a bit more advice. The Server has two controller cards & 16 600GB drives, divided into 2 cages of 4 Drives on each controller card. So each controller manages 8 Drives. The Smart Array 410I card in Embeddeded Slot will only let me create a RAID 0 or RAID 10) Ideall I want RAID 5
.The second Controller Smart Array P410 in Slot 1 lets me create RAID 5 and RAID 50 etc,)
So the first question is, why will the first controller not let me create a RAID 5 Array from the disks?
So the second question is, is there any way I can configure the system so that all drives are contolled and can be configured as one block of 16 drives with RAID 5
Cheers,
Julian
Hi There!
1. First of all, the embedded Smart Array controller may not have minimum 256 MB Cache installed (BBWC). If no cache, no RAID 5. You may need to buy it.
Please check this link for more information: http://www.tricksguide.com/how-to-check-array-accelerator-cache-battery-bbwc-fbwc-hp-server.html
2. You cannot create a single array of 16 HDDs as HDDs are not connected to same controller. The only way to do is buy HP SAS Expander card and then you can connect 24 HDDs to the SAS expander.
Please check this link: http://h18004.www1.hp.com/products/servers/proliantstorage/arraycontrollers/sas-expander/index.html
Regards
SiRU
Hi SiRu,
I am building a new HP ProLiant DL160 G6 L5630 1P 4GB-R B110i Cold Plug SATA 4 LFF 500W PS Server, then
I have boot SmartStart 8.70b x64 and this is what happen :
- Language and Keyboard Selection – DONE- Next
- HP End User Agreement – DONE – Next
- Msgbox appeared – The page at hpmedia://smartstart say : Unsupported Model – installation not available OK
- Under ‘Media Option’ > Maintenance > HP Array Conf and Diag > Configuraton : Smart Array P212 in Slot 2 show ‘!’ symbol and no HDD under it(I have 1 300GB in bay 1).
Can you help me to conf (raid 0) dan Win Serv 2008 R2 ?
Can you guide me to use ORCA?
Thank You
Hope you downloaded the Easy Setup CD !
Now i have finished download ‘HP Proliant Easy Set-up CD’ and boot it.
-There are no more ‘Unsupported Model’ msg and all the feature available now.
-But the ‘!’ symbol still appear in array. It said no conf drive on it. – I have one 300GB HDD on bay 1.
Anybody, can help me?
TQ for read
newcomer
Hi,
I’ve an HP DL380 G7 with 16 internal disks inside connected to a P410i controller and one expander card connected to the main controller.
The optical drive has been removed and I’m using an external USB DVD.
My server can see all of my disks and I created 2 volumes using Smartsart 8.70B: a Raid 1 volume for the OS and a Raid 5 volume for the data.
I tried several times to complete the setup using the normal Smartstart process for Windows 2008 R2, unsuccessfully. The process stops at 27% and I can’t go further.
I tried with Smartstart 8.70, 8.70B, 8.60 and 8.40 all at 64bit, there’s no way to install the OS.
I also tried with iLO and a virtual media connected to the OS image on my laptop. Same results.
I then tried to install the OS without Smartstart but Windows can’t see the controller..I then tried to copy the related drivers on a USB stick, the setup process successfully located the driver but can’t install it (message: make sure the driver files are correct and located on the driver installation media).
The only thing I was able to do is installing Windows 2008 (not the R2) release, but I don’t want to start with an obsolete OS.
Any advice will be greatly appreciated. Thanks a lot in advance for any comment or help on this.
Salvatore
Hi,
I have not come across this issue but let me give you a probable workaround.
Please remove the SAS Expander card, connect the P411 directly to the hard drive backplane, connect 2 HDDs and create RAID 1. Then install the Windows 2008 R2, ideally this should work.
Then connect the SAS expander and ensure that HDD is in the same bay. Let me know whether it works.
If this works, continue creating RAID 5 on your Server.
Fixed! The Smartstart don’t work with Windows 2008 R2 with SP1!
I tried with another DVD without SP1 and I was finally able to complete my setup..!
Best
Salvatore
Wow!!, but as per HP, Sp1 can work with SmartStart CD 8.7B,
as long as it worked, I am happy for you
Cheers mate.
Yes I know, this is in their release notes. I actually tried several times (even with iLO and virtual device) but it was definitively not possible to install the OS with SP1.
cheers
S.
Cool, thats a learning for me
Hi SiRu,
Customer wants to install an operating system over a LAN , he is located in another country.
He wants to know step by step procedure how throgh ILO can he manage to install the OS.
is this some thing different to installing OS over a LAN ?
Regards
Sohan
He can install OS using iLO, regardless of which country is he in.
There is PXE based OS installation, I am not sure whether you are referring to PXE boot.
Regards
SiRU
I am having an issue with my DL380G7. I have the 16 drives with exapnder card. I cannot get the drives in the expasion bay to be recognized. When going through the array setup, it does not show the expasion bay at all. After going through the entire install, I can see the card and the bay installed in Windows, but none of the drives. DId I mess something up?
May I know whether you have done the cabling right?
Please check these 3 links:
HP SAS Expander Card – Issue During Installation (Cabling)
Click here
HP SAS Expander Card Installation Instructions
Click here
HP SAS Expander Card – Installing the HP SAS Expander
Click here
I checked and double checked it all. When I turn the server on, the test lights go on for the array, and go down the drive bays. In Windows, the device manager shows the bay under Storage Controllers, but I cannot see it in the ACU in either Windows or when booting to the SmartStart disk.
Here is how it is currently connected. 8C & 9C connected to the board on server, 2C 3C 4C 5C connected drive arrays.
Hmm, seems like either controller, SAS expander gone bad.
Can you upgrade SAS expander firmware once and let me know what happens please
Hi
Can you tell me how did you manage to take screenshots of the process?
I’ve got a chapter in my thesis about SmartStart and need some screenshots.
I tried using VMWare Workstation but it tells me the system is not supported (which is obvious, I guess)
If you can tell me how you did it or send me your screenshots without the watermark (don’t worry, it won’t get published) it would be much appreciated.
Thanks in advance,
Dokus
Hi Dokus, Please send me an email at tricksguide@gmail.com.
Sorry earlier someone gave me promise saying that it will not be published and later cheated, so please send me email and I can help you for sure.
Regards
SiRu
Ok, I have shared all the screenshots with you
I have an hp server dl 360 Prolant need to install Windows 2008 supports it srver or teng to do
I did not understood the question, can you explain it better?
Hi Suri,
This is an awesome guide. I am running into a bit of trouble though. I have DL380 G7. I am trying to install 2008 standard R2 64 bit. I have tried doing it via CD, and it stops at 27%. I then put the ISO file on a USB Flash drive and that gets stuck at 27% when copying hpssbem.exe file. I am using smart start 8.70B 64 bit. Any suggestions would be great!
Thanks
Nevermind, I ended up redownloading the iso file and reburn and that seemed to work.
Glad to hear that you were able to solve it
Sorry for my late reply
Hi All,
I wonder if you could help me.
I have done HP installs before on a small scale but i will soon have to setup 15 DL 360′s and i was looking for some advice on some sort of hard disc cloning.
The systems themselves will be identical except for Machine name and IP address.
They will only have a single HD possibly with 2 partitions.
I have done HD cloning before and i was just wondering if anyone could tell me the best way of doing this with HP’s bearing in mind the HP management software etc.
My ideal scenario would be to create a perfect install with all the programs required and then some sort of sysprep to remove Sids etc, then clone to many HD’s and then install the HD’s into the other servers.
I would however welcome advice on how to do it or if there are easier/better ways of doing it.
Thanks in advance.
Can anyone help? I havenot done disk cloning yet.
hello
i have Windows Server 2008 R2 Standard, Enterprise, Datacenter, and Web (x64) DVD
i tried to install windows server 2008 enterprise r2 using HP Smart Start on HP Proliant ML110 G7 .
the problem is Smart Start can not find the specific version from DVD due there are different version of win server inside DVD . how can i solve the problem?
Ideally, it should work. Try using the latest version of SmartStart CD and see how it goes. If it does not work, please install the OS manually.
Is an excelllent primer
Thanks
Thanks, Glad I could help
ola amios soy de peru e querido instalar en sistema operativo a una hp proliant ml110 g7 con su cd smartSmart todo bien bootea pero llega un momento en q m pide la licencia del sistema sea enterpareise o standar e buscado todo el manuel y no encuentro la licencia…lo e exo hp brand y al llegar al 27 por ciento me bota el cd de smartStars ayuda por favor
Could you explain it in Simple English (I am not from English speaking country), I used Google Translator but could not really understand the issue you are experiencing.
Dear Siru,
thank you for your great posts. i need HP Proliant DL 120 G7 Server windows 2003 SP2 installation without smart disk keeping existing partitions.
You can boot the server from Windows OS CD, use smart array controller driver if really needed (usually windows detects it) and install the OS on first logical drive or Do the repair OS install if OS is already installed.
Have data backup as you have a good chance you may screw-up!
I have a HP Prolliant Ml100 G7, and i want install Win 2k3, can you help me ? HP startsmart 8.7 is not support for win2k3
Many of these servers are not compatible with 2003. But May I know Server model? Ml100 G7 seems to be a wrong one.
Hi Siru,
i installed Windows 2008 R2 on Hp DL360 G7 , i am not able to find VGA drivers even i checked on hp website, for the same model , i cant see any driver related to VGA . please advice
Please share the device IDs of the graphics card. Basically, everyone uses the standard VGA drivers as no one use any graphics intensive software on this server.
Hi SiRu
I’m trying to install Win2k3 R2 64bit on my HP ML110 G7.
The smartstart CD does not include it, only v. 2008.
I downloaded SmartStart 8.7b but it did not have either.
Is there another way that you know of?
thanks in advanced
-urim
ML110 G7 basically supports below said OS:
Microsoft Windows Server 2008 Essential Business
Microsoft Windows Server 2008 R2
Microsoft Windows Server 2008 Small Business
Microsoft Windows Server 2008 W32
Microsoft Windows Server 2008 x64
So, if you wish to install 2003 on this server, I would recommend you to try the Manual OS install method.
Hi SiRu
Thanks for your reply. I have tried going that route of installing Win2k3 R2 64 bit manually:
1. Set up RAID array and create logical drive prior to installing the said OS.
-but I keep getting the blue screen of death (BSOD) when it tries to go past “windows is starting…”.
2. I went back and return the BIOS to its default settings and proceeded to install the OS without RAID or logical drives
-this time it installs fine.
I have to set up for RAID though, and it is why I came here, to find another way to do it. : \
What would you recommend? Thanks for the help.
Hi SiRu
You’re right, HP ML110 G7 will support Win2K8 versions and not so much Win2k3.
The problem was setting up the SATA Controllers and creating logical drive(s) prior to installing Win2k3.
After installing the OS one must configure it via disk management feature in Windows. (Start>right-click Computer>Manage>DiskManagement)
Thanks for your advice, I enjoy checking out your other posts and blogs,
will be visiting often.
SiRoS09
Thanks for visiting my blog, you may also like us at facebook or Google+
Can you tell me which controller you have it on this server?
SiRu
You’re welcome, and I sure have. By the way, I ended up setting the server on the default controller setting (SATA Legacy Support) in order to proceed with installment.
If I am not wrong, ML110 G7 comes with HP Embedded Smart Array B110i SATA RAID Controller (RAID 0/1/10).
You need to go to BIOS, enable the RAID OR, press F8 at server post and create RAID.
If this does not work, use the SmartStart CD, click on Maintanance, open ACU. Then clear the entire configuration. Recreate Array and logical drive.
Then try again.
You will find a lot of articles at tricksguide.com
Nice tutorial for a beginner like me. =D
Thanks sir..
Thanks for your comments
i have the same problem. the installation stuck at 27% and the status is “Waiting for valid media to be inserted”. I use the bundled Microsoft Windows 2008 R2 Standard 64bit CD and the HP Smart Start i use is also 64bit version 8.70
is there anyone encounter the same problem with me?
Please use 8.7B which is the latest and also ensure that the Windows version is right.
SiRu, great job on this blog and much apreciate for all the time you spent maintaining this site and answering other’s issues, for I am one in need of some help too.
I am very new to server but not so new when it comes to PC. I bought this server (ProLiant ML110 G7) w/o any HD over a week ago and since then I’v been trying to install OS, namely Server 2008 R2, on this server without any luck. I bought 1TB SATA and 140GB SSD also saperate and trying to install OS on the SSD which is attached to the first drive slot on the Embedded Smart Array B110i SATA RAID Controller.
I’ve tried creating RAID and without RAID (deactivating the RAID) and did’nt get me anywhere. I tried with and without SSCD (including version 8.70B x64). It alway ends up with error of some kind while copying files; file not found, or could not be copied, etc. One of the last error message was error code 0×80070570.
My question I guess is, could this be (OS) installed on a SSD drive, if so, do I need special driver for the SSD or the controller for the SSD?
Any suggestion is greatly apreciated.
Hi Manik,
As per the Server specification sheet, I could not find any SSDs supported by this Server. Moreover, I find that B110i is a SATA Array controller, this controller will not support SAS HDDs as well. It supports only SATA HDDs. For more info, please check:
HP ProLiant ML110 Generation 7 (G7):
http://h18004.www1.hp.com/products/quickspecs/14012_div/14012_div.HTML
However, as per below said HP documentation, I find that SSDs are supported by second generation B110i Controller. Your Server uses the second generation.
Notice: (Revision) HP Smart Array B110i SATA RAID Controller – Functionality and Features of the First SATA Smart Array Controller
Click here to read
Still, my recommendation will be to use a SATA HDD on this server and test it before we conclude that its an issue with SSDs.
To install OS, boot server using SmartStart CD, click maintanance, open Array Configuration Utility, Then clear entire Array/RAID information (Ensure that you do this!). Then start over by creating a new array and logical drive.
Also check the “HP Smart Array B110i SATA RAID Controller User Guide” available at HP.com/Google.com to know more.
I am sorry, I am on vocation so do not have access to all of my technical resources here!
Regards
SiRu
Hi SiRu,
Thank you for the information you’ve provided. It confirmed that OS can be installed into SSD drive as it’s also a SATA drive. When I got some time, I started the installation process again, but failed after copying the OS files and reboot.
Then finally I was able to install Win 2008 R2 w/o the SmartCD.
1. In BIOS, I’ve Enabled the RAID and selected SATA RAID.
2. I took out the other (1TB) SATA drive and attached only the SSD drive on the 2nd array (DVD drive + SSD drive). Now my Primary array (4 HDD slots) is empty.
3. Started OS installation from the OS setup DVD and not SSCD. Note that SSCD aproach may also work, I just took this aproach first and it worked.
4. After several reboot, I was able to log into server 2008 desktop.
However, then I went back and attached the SATA 1TB HD back and now I’m getting the “Bootmgr is missing” message at bootup. I realized that this drive has changed to C: and my OS drive (former C:) has changed to D: drive, therefore it’s not finding the boot information.
Tonight I’ll work on that, will find a way to make the SATA drive primary channel. Will post results.
Hi Manik,
Glad that you were able to find the solution. Do let me know how did you solve bootmgr issue!
Thanks for sharing your experience, its much appreciated.
SiRu
To resolve “Bootmgr is missing” issue, I had a visit to MS Technet site:
http://social.technet.microsoft.com/Forums/en-US/winservergen/thread/0e6a7b6a-70de-41af-b2c8-5f8f3c86cef7/
Two solutions described seem to work for everyone. I’ll list one:
1. Boot from your Windows Server 2008 R2 x64 DVD.
2. Repair
3. Command Prompt
4. rename c:\boot\BCD bcd.old
5. Bootrec /RebuildBcd
6. dispart
7. select disk 0
8. select partition 1 (the 100MB partition)
9. active
10. exit
11. reboot server and remove DVD
But for me, I did not have to go that extreme. My boot order was not right in BIOS, that’s why it could not find boot instructions in C:.
Note that I finally had to disable SATA RAID in BIOS to install OS properly. I have two orther 1TB hard drives installed, but not configured as RAID. In BIOS, I had to select Legacy SATA. Is there any disadvantage in this settings?
SiRu, since I installed OS without SSCD, my question is how much do I really need the applications from SSCD and can I install those application now from OS?
Thanks again,
-Manik
Sorry for late reply.
Manik, thanks for sharing your feedback and solution that worked for you!. This will help our fellow readers for sure.
Hi,
I want install Windows 2008 Server R2 Enterprise edition on Proliant ML330 G6, Does the SmartStart CD contains the OS? Because, when I run SmartStart CD to install OS I get stuck at 27% asking me to insert the Windows 2008 Server R2 Enterprise edition installation CD. Please, tell me if I still need to get the CD with a valid License
Yes!, SmartStart CD does not contain the OS, it only contains drivers and tools.
wow.. i’m one of the korean people.
i think that you really know a lot of information about Server..
sorry but, i wondering your job.
Server engineer?
last monday i begun in the HP’s Server engineer..
if you don’t mind, could you share server information with me?
i waiting for your reply.. thanks!! ^_^
Whatever I know is from my experience, and my employer has no role in this blog. I work on HP Servers so I write about it when I get time. I am not an expert.
I like to be anonymous and let me know what help you need regarding Server.
I will try with my limited knowledge
SiRU
Hi SiRu,
This is a great blog, very helpful for us.
I was told to upgrade our existing server DL380G5 to Server 2008R2. I would like to do a clean install. Current configuration are as follows:
Logical Drive1: 2 HDD – Raid 1+0 (OS Installed)
Logical Drive2: 6 HDD – Raid 5 (Data, 2 partitions)
I will not touch the raid config and will be using logical drive 1 to install server2008R2.
My question is
1. If I install the OS in Logical Drive 1, will the logical drive 2 will be affected? Because we have a lot of data there.
2. Is the latest SmartStart will work with DL380 G5? I had ver8.4 in hand.
3. Do you have a video tutorial using this smart start?
Thank You!
Sorry for very late reply.. Missed your comments..
Question: If I install the OS in Logical Drive 1, will the logical drive 2 will be affected? Because we have a lot of data there.
Answer: I would recommend you to have a data backup. Ideally, logical drive 2 will not be affected and your data should be intact.
Question:Is the latest SmartStart will work with DL380 G5? I had ver8.4 in hand.
Answer: Please use the latest version of SmartStart CD, HP SmartStart CD x64 8.70 (B) which is released on 1 Dec 2011
Question: Do you have a video tutorial using this smart start?
Answer: No Video tutorial yet, not good with Videos
Regards
SiRu
can you help me, install windows 2008 on hp ml370 g4 with smart start 8.30
May I know what help you need regarding this?
I try to install SBS 2011 with Smartstart 8.7b to an HP 380 G5. On SmartStart I can not see the SBS 2011 to choose. Only 2008 eg. What’s the reason ?
As per HP, the SBS2011 is not supported on 380 G5.
I want install Windows 2008 Server R2 Enterprise edition 64 bit on Proliant ML380 G7, when I run SmartStart CD to install OS I get stuck at 27% asking me to insert the Windows 2008 Server R2 Enterprise edition installation CD and i put the DVD in to the DVD drive but its stack in 27%. Then there is no progress to do something. Please, tell me what should i do then.
Mamun,
This issue basically happens when you do not select the right Operating System version from SmartStart CD. The CD you insert to the drive and the OS version you have selected in SmartSTrat CD should match. Also pay attention and check whether you are using HP Media or Retail media.
If the issue still persists, try using the 8.7b smartstart CD and see how it goes. If issue persists, then we have to do manual Os install. Its easy and straight forward.
Hi Siru,
need your help, I try to install winserver 2k3 R2 stdr edition, the problem is the controller of my storage cannot detect, how to install storage controller..?,
my server HP Proliant ML150 G5, with 3 harddisk SATA.
thanks before.
ML150 G5 controller shipped with Integrated SATA RAID controller. So you need to go to HP.com and download the Embedded SATA controller driver (for G5 servers), extract the downloaded .exe to a floppy (There will be some INF files in the floppy). Now install the OS. When you install OS, select F6, select Floppy and it will find the drivers from Floppy disk.
If you do not have floppy drive (internal/external), then you can use software such as nLite and add the storage controller driver to the Windows CD.
I hope this information helps
Thanks for your information, I will try.
Hi Siru
Can you please advice me:
1. Will SSCD will work on HP Proliant Micro Server N40L
2. Which version of MS Server do you recomend with the N40L ie. 2008 R2 Std, or SBS 2011 Std
3. What are the benefis of SBS Premium over SBS Std
Thanking you advance
HP SmartStart CD does not work with Microserver. You need to manually install OS on Microserver. But it is easy to do and usually you will not be prompted to provide drivers while installing Windows OS.
Ensure that you create RAID on your Microsever before you install OS, the steps to create RAID is available at my blog:
The OS versions supported by Microserver are:
Microsoft Windows Server 2008 Foundation Edition
Microsoft Windows Server 2008 R2
Microsoft Windows Server 2008 Small Business
I would recomment you to install 2008 SBS
Hope this info helps
Hi Siru
Thank you so much for you advice and guidance
and thank you for taking the time to share your knowledge which is of great help to newbies like me
Glad to see your comments
I had “stuck at 27%” issue when i attempted to install 2008R2 from DVD. But installation from USB key (ISO image) was successful.
Sometime this issue happens when the SATA controller of the CD/DVD causes shared IRQ issues … Glad it worked for you.
I am being stuck at 27%. What can I do to finish the installation. Please help me.
If you are stuck at 27%, it means the OS media (CD/DVD) is not detected or the OS version you chose in SmartStart CD is wrong. This issue usualy happens when you have selected a wrong OS version at steps 8 and 9. If the Operating System selected at step 8 and 9 does not match with the version of Windows available on the CD, the installation will not continue.
Ensure that you selected the right choice at steps 8 & 9, also the right OS cd is inserted.
WOW…What a great resource this site and you are. Glad i found you.
Any guesstimate on how long SmartStart should take to load initially?
DL380/G4 with 6 drives and 6 g ram
HP SmartStart CD 8.50 is the latest version supported on your DL380 G4 server. If you are using above said SmartStart CD version, then it should not take more than 15 minutes to load on your Server.
I have configuring HP Proliant server and i had OS is microsoft windows server 2008 R2,
First inserted HP SmartStart CD and selected proper option and which is asked for OS then i inserted OS now which is showing an error that is “the disc doesn’t match the selected operating system missing:Source/*_x86.
HP SmartStart is 8.70 version
OS is Microsoft windows Server 2008 R2 standard, this disk contains x64-bit software only.
May I know the Disc contains Windows 2008 R2? Please confirm again. Also try using 8.7B version of SmartStart CD. I have installed R2 many times using this CD.
we have a new gen8 server and cant install w2003. if i were to do manual install, how hard is it to get drivers and raid working?
Dan, Microsoft stopped supporting Windows 2003 and hence it is not really recommended to install 2003 on Gen8 Servers.
As per my understanding, HP Gen8 servers are not tested with 2003 OS. However, if you need to install the OS manually, you can do it and try to use Windows 2008 storage controller driver.. It may work.
But this will be a Trial n error method.. !!!
Hi Siru,
I was wondering if you could help me, I’m having issues with the install – “Windows could not prepare the computer to boot into the next phas of installation. To install Windows, restart the installation.” Well I’ve already restarted it several times, no luck. Thoughts?
Please provide more information, which server, which OS, whats the firmware of server. which smartsrat CD, etc?
today my company buyed hp proliant dl380 g8. i configure RAID 10 with my disks. i puts installation DVD with windows server 2008 enterprise sp2, but the server doesn’t boot from dvd. the dvd is bootable. i used provisioning but i can’t choose dvd, i receive option for network, usb, ftp. in bios first boot device is cd room but it’s not work. why? can i install windows manual without hp tools and how?
May I know the version of Intelligent Provisioning you use.. Are you using the latest 1.20 version on your server? if not, reinstall IP to the latest version. You will find steps in my blog. Thanks
configuring mirror/raid using smartstart cd
Hi,
May I know what exactly you are referring by “configuring mirror/raid using smartstart cd”? please let me know the exact issue!!
I have a DL 160 G6 and I’m trying to install Windows 2003 Server 32bit, seeing these documents came to payment number 27 with 99% and sends me blue window, where it says “DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL”. I hope you can help me, as I’ve tried several times and I get the same problem.
Did you try using latest HP Easy Setup CD and checked whether it works on your Server?
Hello SiRu,
Above, in considering your step 21, “Select YES for Configure Windows firewall for Remote WMI access, click Next”
First of all, some of this is very new to me. I currently have a Windows 2000 Server domain controller that I am replacing with a new machine that will have Windows 2008 R2. The Windows 2000 machine does not have a firewall (as I understand it), but we do have a separate Checkpoint firewall machine. So, with Windows 2008 R2, will I have the Windows firewall and my Checkpoint firewall? (Actually, one of my next projects is to replace the Checkpoint machine with a Cisco ASA 5510.)
Anyway, the question is basically, if I have this external Checkpoint (or ASA 5510) firewall, do I need to enable the Windows firewall and do step 21 above?
Thanks…
Hi Bennie,
First of all, this firmwall configuration came in to picture because we have selected WBEM at Step 17. “17. Select YES for both SNMP and WBEM Providers. Click Next”
Ideally we need only SNMP, you do not need WBEM at all. This article is aimed at basic entry level users hence I selected both.
If you do not select WBEM at step 17, then you will not be asked about Firewall.
Answer to your question: You DO NOT need to enable firewall here
Regards
SiRu
my problem is DL360 G7 with windows server 2008 r2, after installation and reboot an erroe appear boot media not fund. that is strange.
can you help?
thanx
1. Did you check what is the Boot controller Set in RBSU/BIOS?
2. What is the status of Logical drives (RAID)?
3. Is there any CD/USB connected to Server?
4. Will re-imaging the OS fixed the issue?
HP ProLiant DL180 G6 – try install Win2008 R2 std – Got this error HPssbem.exe after the 1st reboot.
- I used Easy setup CD to setup
- Bios is up to date 2012.05.01
- Storage controller f/w also up to date.
Can you help?
THX
Please try installing OS manually than using Easy Setup CD, then download the storage controller driver and extract it to a a USB drive, then when asked for storage controller driver, please install it.
This should take care of it.
Hello,
I just downloaded Windows Server 2008 R2 with Service Pack 1 180-day Trial version.
I know that Trial version does NOT need a key to install BUT I need the key to install it on HP Server through smartstart CD. After booting from Smartstart CD, entering OS serial key is a Mandatory before starting installation.
Please advise!
Thanks
Sorry for late reply
Windows 200R R2 *64 bit does not require product key..
Could you check whether you have selected Windows 2008 R2 at Step 8 and 9 of my article..
DL 380p G8 server has one hdd physically showing RED but the hdd has no error on ADU.
Could you please share the ADU report with me? What happens if you install the same HDD on another HDD slot?
Please send reports and screenshots at tricksguide at gmail dot com
Hi SiRu,
you have a very good blog, Thank you. I was wondering if you could help. I am trying to install Windows 2008 R2 Standard Edition onto HP ProLiant DL360 G7 server, however the installation goes part way through until when the server reboots and asks “Where do you want to install Windows”? no matter which partition I choose or any option available used with this screen I get and the following error message “Setup was unable to create a new system partiton or locate an exisiting system partition. See the setup log files for more information. I have also deleted and receated the array via the BIOS aswell as through the SmartStart CD but am not having any joy. I have been working on for atleast 2 and a half days and getting frustrated as to why it does not install properly. Any help would be appreciated. Many Thanks VInay.
Vinay, please clear the RAID using clear configuration option in ACU, then use system erase option in smartstart cd to reset server. Later, use different hdds and create raid, it worked for me once.
Thanks Siru for this great guide.
I have HP ProLiant BL460c Server Blade, it already has Windows server 2008 32-bit installed on it but I want to format it and install Windows server 2008 64-bit instead. Should I follow the same steps in your guide? And what smart start CD should I use? the 32-bit or the 64-bit??
Hi,
You need to use the 64 bit version of SmartStart CD on your Server.
Please follow the same steps as outlined in this article
Sorry for late reply.. I was on 1 month vocation
Cheers
We are facing the issue in HP DL380G8 server, there are 10 hard drives, 3 HDD is 300Gb each and 7 HDD are 1TB each and 2 Raid Controller in the server one is embadded and 2nd on the PCIe slot, 3 HDD which are 300GB configured with embadded Array Controller and 7 HDD configured with on slot controller, every things OK when installtion is completed with OS2008R2 Ent. than go to the ACU Array Controller Utilities there we can not find 2nd controller only 1 controller showing with 3x300GB HDD.
Why 2nd controller is not showing on ACU?
Kindly reply me on my email ID: hashmi99@hotmail.com
Hello Hashmi,
Please let me know the model numbers of the controllers and also specify if it is DL380e Gen8 or DL380p gen8.
hi SiRu,
I am trying to install Windows Server 2008 R2 on a GL380 G4. Tech advised me to download the SmartstartCD 8.5 x64. When I boot from this CD, it does go to the boot up process then I get the command line screen with ‘smartstartsystem0016356af037:~ #’. I don’t know what it’s asking from me. I thought I’ll just see a GUI. Your help is much appreciated. Thanks.
Regards,
She’
You can switch between the Shell interface or GUI version by pressing Ctrl + Alt + F1 or Ctrl + Alt + F2
If it does not work, download another copy of SmartStart CD or older version of Smartstart CD and try again..
Hi SIRU, you have a very good blog, Thank you. You can install on a W2000 Advanced Server DL360p G8?.
Windows 2000 is not supported in this server.. Better not to try installing it.
Thanks. it is great blog.
I have a question. after creating RAID 5 and logical drive using smartstart cd after that can I install windows 2008 R2 directly from windows bootable dvd instead of using smartstart, what is the difference because sometime I am facing problem that system stuck when i insert the windows dvd “waiting for valid media to be inserted” using smartstart 8.60 or 8.50 x 64.
Thanks
Agha
The only difference is when you smart start CD, it will be an assisted installation which will install drivers and required HP softwares, If you install directly through the OS media it will just install the Os and you need to download the drivers and softwares using the SPP
Hi Siru, i’m installed 3 (500GB) harddisk for my server (proliant DL380 G7), but in step 7,
detected 1 harddisk only .
i want to install win server 2008 R2 64bit standart edition. how to fix this?
Regards,
Eko
Smartstart cd does not detect the number of hdds installed in the server. It detects the number of logical drives (RAID) you have created.
In hp server, you need to first create raid, then install os. You cannot select individual disk drives while installing os.
You can use Hp Array Configuration Utility to create raid on your server. All steps available in my blog.
Regards
Siru